How can I programmatically modify Python source code using AST manipulation?

Modifying Python Source Code Through AST Manipulation

Programmatic editing of Python source code requires parsing the file, obtaining the abstract syntax tree (AST), making modifications, and writing back the modified source code. Standard Python modules like ast and compiler provide parsing capabilities but lack the ability to modify and rewrite the source.

Lib2to3 and Rope: Specialized Solutions

Pythoscope and the 2to3 tool employ the lib2to3 library, an implementation of Python's parsing/compiling machinery, to preserve comments during source manipulation. The rope project allows for more extensive refactoring transformations.

AST and Unparsing Alternatives

The ast module offers another option, although it is more suitable for AST transformations that are converted into code objects. An example of "unparsing" syntax trees using the parser module is available, but ast is more effective for processing code into a code object.

Additional Options

Xavier Combelle suggests the redbaron project, which may also meet your requirements. This project focuses on manipulating Python source code. By using these specialized libraries or techniques, developers can achieve programmatic editing of Python source code, a valuable capability for mutation testing and various refactoring tasks.

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